Sew a Breathable DIY Face Mask & Stand Out From the Rest

Tools and materials:

• Pattern- get your free pattern here
• Sewing machine
• Fabric
• Elastics
• Thread
• Needle
• Scissors

Make your pattern

I have linked a standard pattern above, but in this step, I’m going to show you how to make your pattern by taking your own measurement. You will need to take the following measurements; from the bridge of your nose to your chin, from one ear to the other, across the face and over your nose, and from the top of your ear to the bottom of your chin. Write all those measurements so you don’t forget them.

Draw out your measurements.

On a piece of paper, draw your pattern. We will be dividing the measurements into 2, as we are drawing half of the face mask as a pattern. Add your markings and connect the dots, making sure to slightly curve around the bottom. Next, cut your pattern out.

Cut and pin your fabric

To have a good, quality face mask, you need to use non-woven fabric. Also, cotton is recommended as it’s breathable. Also, you will need a lining that can filter out the air particles. If you don’t have a lining, you can do what I did- I found a non-woven polypropylene material from a shopping bag. Talk about a great upcycle!

Fold your fabric into 4 layers, as you will need 4 pieces for the mask. Next, pin the pattern down and cut it around.

Next, pin your pattern on the non-woven polypropylene fabric, and cut around. Make sure you have 2 pieces for this.

You should have 4 fabric pieces and two inner-lining pieces.

Prepare your elastic 

I had a sew of small elastic, which can be hard to find. If that’s the case, take a regular, 1 inch elastic and cut it in the middle. Or, you can opt for an elastic headband and use that.

Sew the pieces

Place the right sides together, pin, and sew the masks together, in the center ¼ inch seam allowance. 

If you don’t have a sewing machine, sew this by hand, as shown.

Now, assemble your sewn pieces. The two fabric face masks should be right sides together and the lining at the bottom. Pin in place and sew, leaving the sides open.

Before turning the face mask inside out, cut small slits on the side. Then, turn the facemask inside out, so that you have the lining in the middle. Zig zag the sides closed, too.

Create a channel for the elastic

Fold the sides an inch inwards and stitch. This will create a neat channel for your elastic.

Next, take your elastic, put it through a plastic needle, and feed it through the channel you created.Attach the ends together manually, or if the elastic is thicker, you can easily do this with a sewing machine.

Now you have the perfect customized face mask that fits your face just right! Isn’t this just awesome? I love that the fabric is funky and sets a unique impression from those boring masks you find at the store. Go ahead and make yourself a bunch and don’t forget to share the love with friends and family, and even medical workers! Stay safe and healthy!